Hey readers, thanks for sticking with the story!

Please let me know if you like the smut added. This is my first time writing, so let me know what you think.

Writing their everyday life is challenging, but fun. It's fun exploring how they would hide their relationship.

Happy to announce that there will be regular updates. I'm excited to continue this story.

Please review, it really keeps me going!

Chapter 12: Forward

The next week passed in a frenzy. Preparing for the family's arrival seemed like an endurance horse race for the two heads of staff. Inventories were gone over, orders made, and shipments distributed within the Abbey. Elsie went over each room to ensure perfection and Charles made sure all silver was polished. He made wine selections for the next week's menu.

This insured tiresome days and not much time together. Elsie took Charles by surprise one morning at breakfast by drawing her leg up his, under the table. He almost jumped out of his chair. All eyes moved to him because of his unusual action. Elsie didn't reveal anything, just took a sip of her tea, hiding a small smirk. Charles looked over at his wife, her pleased look indicating her involvement. He shook his head and looked down at his breakfast, all the while a small smile adorned his lips.

This became their new normal, touching each other in the subtlest of ways. A brush of a finger here, feet resting together under the table there, and shoulders meeting while on a stroll through the halls. Alone at night they were more physical, practically on top of each other and that's when they were not physically entangled, usually on her small settee. She talked him into looking for a more comfortable lounge chair for his office. Teased him about the activities they could accomplish on said chair. He relented and selected one from the attic two days after they were back. They broke it in the night before the family arrived.

Elsie still had not found the key or any clue that could point her in the right direction. She was feeling a tad disillusioned. Afraid there was no key to be found. Charles commented on his dislike of sleeping alone each night. Elsie agreed, but was getting agitated that he was not taking more initiative to help find the key.

The family had been home for the past two days. They arrived with much fanfare and activity. The girls were running around. Pleased to be out of the confines of the carriage. The family seemed happy to be home. Lord and Lady of Grantham requested to speak to the two heads of household staff. Wanting a report of the household and to discuss any important changes.

In the last two nights, the couple decided to pull back from marital fun. They wanted to give the family a few days to settle in. Not wanting to take the risk of one of them venturing downstairs or calling for a servant in the late hours of the night. They still spent the evenings together, but enjoyed each other's conversation over a glass of wine.

They were currently seated in Charles' pantry discussing that day's events. The two oldest children of the household had caused quite the commotion during the early afternoon. They had slipped out of Nanny's care during a walk on the grounds and disappeared. The family was frantic and Nanny was in hysterics.

All available staff searched the estate with the worried parents. Elsie was asked to watch over little Lady Sybil. She was thankful the baby was good natured. Sybil sat in her lap contently for most of the time, while Elsie looked over different inventory logs and staff rotations.

Hours later the girls were found in the stables. Hidden in the hay loft, the girls were found playing with a litter of barn kittens. Charles was the one to find them. He heard the pleased squeals of the girls above his head when he searched the stables. He climbed the loft ladder and collected the girls. Soon they were reunited with their parents. After many hugs and a firm reprimand, all staff were informed and everyone made their way back to the Abbey.

"I'm surprised the sables were not the first place everyone looked," Elsie said.

"Yes, it should have been. I think everyone was scared they ventured into the woods. We should have realized Lady Mary would want to see the horses." He signed.

"And Lady Edith the cats." Elsie added. Both nodded in agreement.

"How was your time with Lady Sybil?"

"Oh no trouble, she is a sweet wee bairn, content to sit with me. We had quite the conversation. Talking about figures and bookkeeping. She's a good babbeler. She fit in a few words though." Elsie smiled with pride.

Charles smiled back at her, thinking of the youngest child. She was a sweet little thing. He changed the subject a few moments later.

"I plan to take a look at my investment profile tomorrow. I believe there is room to grow if I add a few more diverse companies."

"That sounds nice," she said, taking a sip of her wine.

"I was thinking, why don't I invest some of your savings? It would help in adding to our funds in future."

Elsie was caught off guard. A sinking feeling spreads through her abdomen. She knew they would eventually have to talk about her family situation. Should have done before marrying him. She prayed he would be understanding and this would not affect their relationship.

Charles took her pause as hesitation and said "I swear I haven't experienced many losses, I have actually grown a small amount of wealth." He boasted with pride.

"I'm not doubting your abilities Charles." She took another pause to gather her thoughts on how to breach this subject.

"Remember that we promised to have a discussion about each other's family?"

Charles nodded.

"I believe that time has come," Elsie said. She lowered her head. Shame was clouding her mind, even though there was no need for it.

Seeing her distressed Charles stood and walked to her. He held out his hand, inviting her to stand as well. "Why don't we get more comfortable?"

Elsie nodded and placed her hand in his. Charles guided her to his new chair. He took a seat and pulled her into his lap. Her thighs laid across his. Elsie rested her head on his shoulder. She burrowed into his warmth and listened to his heartbeat. Letting the steady beat soothe her. Perhaps this conversation would not be too bad.

Charles started running his hand up and down her side. "I'm all ears Elsie" he prompted.

Elsie took in a deep breath, released it slowly, and said "I grew up on a working farm. We tended to the land and livestock. Our family did not earn much money, but we loved one another. I had a good childhood. My parents allowed me to attend school as long as I could and always treated my sister and I well."

"The only problem at home was my sister. She was not born right. My mother explained it to me during my last visit. How Becky's birth was difficult and Becky was affected. She has always been different in the head. Never talked, has fits, and is not able to take care of herself." Elsie snuggled into him further. She didn't notice any change from him, he was just listening and she was thankful.

"It was not easy to live with her. I love my sister, but I'm afraid I've been cowardly in all aspects of Becky. I don't enjoy being around her and I'm afraid that makes me a bad sister, a bad person. She is tiring Charles. Needs constant attention and care. She is loud and messy. My Mother is a true saint."

Charles was listening with rapt attention. "You're not a bad person Elsie" he murmured against her hair and gave her a kiss.

She appreciated his words. But, the next part of her story brought tears to her eyes. "My father died suddenly when I was 20, too many years in the fields. He collapsed one night over dinner. Just fell over after clutching his chest and was dead a few moments later." Elsie sniffed, silent tears falling down her cheeks in remembrance of her father and that traumatic day.

"My mother was so distressed. She planned the funeral and then seemed to fall into a deep sadness. She still took care of Becky, but hardly spoke a word. Bills started to pile. I knew I needed to go into service in order to support my family. I needed to be strong for her. I found a position in a neighboring town. After a few months it was evident that my contribution was not enough." Elsie took another deep breath and felt Charles tug her in closer.

"I had to convince my mother to sell the farm, Charles. She was devastated and fought me constantly. But Becky needed her. It was always about what Becky needed. My entire life after she was born, it's been about her. My mother finally agreed once it was becoming harder to pay the worker we needed and have food on the table. We sold the farm to a neighbor and he agreed to rent the house to my mother."

"Since then I have always been financially responsible for them. Mother was not able to work much. The sale of the farm helped, but my parents had a few debts. Overall the majority of my pay stub goes to them. You married a popper Charles. I don't have any savings and I'm sorry we never discussed this before." Move tears made their way down her face. Worry over his reaction adding to her emotional state. He had not pushed her out of his lab yet, in fact he was still offered his touch and love.

"Oh Elsie" he kissed her forehead.

"It's a lot, I know," Elsie signed.

"It is a lot," he agreed. "That's a lot of responsibility for anyone to carry, especially a young woman just starting her career." He continued in a soft tone"I understand Elsie, there is no need to worry. I'll invest for us, okay?"

Elsie nodded into his chest.

"There is more Charles" She felt him tense. She moved her hand over his upper arm and started rubbing. Offering him comfort in return. She continued.

"My mother is sick, doctors don't know what's wrong with her or know how much time she has. She looks so different. Pale and much too thin. It was a horrible realization while I was in Argyle."

"I'm so sorry, my love" Elsie felt his emotions through the tone of his voice, it vibrated throughout her body. His voice was very soothing for her.

"My mother and I had a conversation about what happens to Becky after she is gone. The worst discussion I've ever had. I have always known Becky would be within my care once my mother passed, I just didn't think it would be this soon." Elsie weeped a little, letting more tears fall.

Charles continued to rub her back and sides, understanding her sadness. Both his parents passed before he reached 30 years of age.

"The plan is to find her a care home within England. Almost all of my money will go towards that. I have no other assets to sell after my mother is gone. No other money besides what I earn."

"So you see I don't add much to this marriage financially, in fact I drag it down."

"Elsie, you could never drag me down. I love you. You are not a burden." He turned her face to his. Wanting her to see the truth within his eyes.

Elsie was overwhelmed by the look he bestowed upon her. She brought her mouth to his. Kissing him to express her love. Lips locked for a few tender moments, Elsie drew back and said "Thank you, Love."

"We will figure it out together Elsbeth May Carson, this is my promise to you." he stated earnestly.

Elsie shifted in his lab and moved her arms around his neck. "I Love you, Charles" she whispered into his ear.

They held each other for a while until Elsie released a big yawn into his shoulder.

"We should head up, love," Charles suggested.

Elsie nodded and yawned again. Lifting herself from his lab, she drew his hand into hers and pulled him up.

They walked together until they made their way to the separate staircases again. Both hoping they would not be separated for much longer. Both could have used a night within each other's arms.

The next morning Elsie rose from her big bed alone once more. She stretched, then lifted herself to stand. She walked to their shared door and knocked three times, then rested her palm against the door. After a few moments she felt and heard the three vibrations of knocks returned.

Elsie smiled to herself and went about getting ready for the day.

Once all the staff were seated for breakfast, conversations flowed and instructions for the day had been discussed. Elsie was seated in her regular spot to the right of her husband. He was content sipping his coffee. His preference for the morning. He situated his foot next to hers. A continuation of their silent agreement to always have contact with the other.

Elsie was busy having a chat with Clara. They were discussing a book they both had read. Comparing it to other books and giving each other recommendations on what to read in future.

Clara told her where to find a couple of good reads in the library. A few mysteries she thought Elsie would enjoy.

Soon their conversation turned to some of their favorite reads and if copies were housed in the library.

"I've always enjoyed Shakespeare, I revisit many of his comedies often. It's amazing. All of his works are in the library" Clara expressed. Her expression was bright.

"I've read a few, they don't seem to hold my attention as much as a good mystery." Elsie admitted.

"Some of them are so romantic, I once convinced Tim to read a few lines from Antony and Cleopatra to me." Clara whispered to Elsie and giggled.

Elsie smiled in return. Thinking that it would be nice for Charles to read to her. His silky baritone would enhance any book. She could picture herself lying beside him and resting her head on his chest. Him reading from an open book and gliding his fingers through her hair. It did sound romantic.

Clara continued the conversation and said "I found the most interesting thing in Romeo and Juliet a few months back. A little key was taped to the back cover. I have no idea what it's for. I found it very strange." Elsie turned her head very sharply to her friend. Brought out of her musing instantly.

"What did you say?" Elsie breathed. She noticed Charles' attentive expression from the corner of her eye. He was following their conversation and picked up on this important tidbit as well.

"I found a key." She gave Elsie a questioning stare, wondering at her intense reaction.

"Where is it now?"

"It's still with the book, I didn't take it. Why are you so interested?" Clara's gaze was more intense, she looked very curious.

"I just…" Elsie had to think quickly for an answer.

"She is the keeper of Keys, you should have brought the key to Mrs. Hughes attention right after you found it" Charles spoke up from beside her. Directing his disappointed gaze on Clara.

Clara opened her mouth to refute his statement, but thought better of it and closed her mouth.

Elsie was very thankful for Charles' interference. She was having a hard time coming up with something. His statement was perfect. It diverted her interest and established her authority to the staff once more. Unknown found items should be brought to her or Charles attention.

"Yes, Mr. Carson is right. Any unknown item should be brought to our attention." Elsie said out loud to the entire staff.

Clara still looked puzzled, but did not reply after.

Elsie felt a little bad for calling out her friend. It was a necessary evil to distract from her real intentions.

Elsie shot Charles a look. Both knew where they were headed as soon as they could manage.

Not even 45 minutes later, the couple searched the library for a certain Shakespearean work. Elsie had to dodge and hide from many staff members in order to escape for sometime. Charles had an easier time, as he was expected to be upstairs and wander the halls daily.

They made sure they were alone and began their search.

With their combined energy the book was soon found. It was a beautiful copy, leather bond with intricate lettering. Charles found it first and opened the copy. He immediately turned to the back cover and there he saw a small brass key. It was suspended to the back cover with a withered looking piece of tape.

He tilted the book down for Elsie to see. She smiled broadly at him. Hope blooming in her chest.

"We should just take the key, I'll secure it to my chatelaine." Elsie suggested.

Charles nodded and carefully pulled back the tape to release the key. Once in his hand he stared at it in wonder. Hoping beyond hope they had finally found their solution.

He handed her the key, watched her place the key onto her chatelaine, and put the book back.

"How much time do you have?"

"Not much," Elsie replied.

"Enough to take a detour to the staff quarters? I believe there is some suspicious paraphernalia we need to investigate." Charles raised a brow.

Sharing his eagerness Elsie nodded and plowed forward towards the servants staircase.

Charles moved quickly to join her.

They decided to go to their individual rooms. Elsie's side had the key hole and there she was staring from the key to the door. Hoping this would work. Her hands were shaking with excitement. Charles was waiting for her on the other side. She took a deep breath and grasped the key.

She placed it into the keyhole and slowly turned. The clicking noise and smooth release of the lock was euphoric. She slowly turned the handle and pushed the door open.

Charles rushed to her at once. Walking through the door for the first time and into her room. He hastily gathered her into his arms and lifted her into the air. Swinging her around in joy. They laughed in elation.

Elsie kissed his face all over, tears of joy sliding down her cheeks. Elsie wanted to wrap her legs around him, but her stiff skirt would not allow the movement. Charles felt her struggles and placed her on her feet. Elsie drew his head to hers and kissed him.

Soon the kiss grew heavy and their merriment turned to desire. Charles maneuvered her against a wall. Arms entangled together, their passion was growing. He moved his mouth to her neck. Tasting all the skin that was available to him. Elsie was trying to hold in her pleased vocalizations, but a low moan escaped her lips when his mouth and tongue met the junction between her neck and shoulder.

Her moan spurred him on, but before he could initiate anything further, footsteps were heard coming down the hall of the woman's side.

The couple pulled apart and looked to the other. Both flushed and breathing heavy they drew further from each other. The footsteps were getting closer. Elsie's eyes widened in shock and moved her eyes to the open door between their rooms. She indicated for Charles to go in that direction. Charles recovered and nodded, he nearly ran for his room, closing the door behind him. Just as the door was closed Elsie heard a knock upon her door.

"Just a moment" Elsie called out. She turned to her mirror and took in her appearance. Her lips looked slightly swollen and her hair was a little bit more frizzy from that morning. Her cheeks definitely had more color. Overall she did look disheveled. She smoothed down her skirt and moved to open her door. Taking in a caulking breath she opened the door.

Sofia was standing on the other side "Mrs. Evans is complaining about this evening's menu again. She has asked for you. I volunteered to find you, so I could get away." Sofia said in a rush. Wriggling her hands together. She looked at the housekeeper and then said "Are you okay Mrs. Hughes?"

Elsie hoped the girl did not hear anything. "Take a breath, dear. You've found me and I'm fine" Elsie started moving into the hall and to the stairs. Once she was halfway she noticed Sofia standing where she left her.

"Come along Sofia, I'll handle Mrs. Evans. Make your way to the family's hall and start on bedrooms."

Sofia looked confused, but relieved and followed the housekeeper.

Later that night, after a grueling day, it felt entirely too long for the couple. Both anticipating their new found freedom. They stood on Elsie's side, admiring their handiwork. The couple had rearranged her room, bed facing their shared wall and other furniture reassembled.

Some of his things were moved into her room. Just small things to make it theirs. All his clothing would stay on his side. They decided to keep the shared door open, making their living quarters bigger and providing a feeling of both spaces being shared.

They decided to forgo their nightly meeting in one of their offices. Too excited to start changing their rooms about.

"Well that seems about it" Elsie stated.

Charles nodded in return, happy with their work.

"We should always turn down your bed, if anyone comes to your door it will look like you have slept there." She continued.

Charles just nodded his head again.

"What's wrong?" She asked, noticing his lack of response.

Shaking his head, Charles said "I'm just amazed, Love" moving to her "We did it, we will truly make this work." He smiled at her. A true wide overjoyed smile.

Elsie joined him and moved her body into his side. She felt so complete. So cherished by him.

She drew her arm around his back and patted his stomach "let's bathe and get ready for bed Mr. Carson." She then stood on her tiptoes and whispered suggestively into his ear "I've got plans for you." Then kissed his cheek.

"Too bad we can't bathe together," he said wistfully, swatting her butt as she moved to walk away.

Elsie turned around in mock shock at his actions. She gave him a heated look "You have half an hour."

"And what happens if I'm late Mrs. Carson?" He wiggled his eyebrows at her.

"You will not be late, else I will be under the covers with a slip on." She said in mock sternness.

He enjoyed her teasing, knowing she knew he would be on time and that lovemaking would be in the cards that night.

Both moved to get ready.

When Charles got back, he locked his door and moved to turn down his narrow bed. Thank heavens she was able to get a bigger bed for her "Their" room.

He started humming as he made his way to their room. He abruptly stopped at the sight before him. Elsie stood before him in all her naked glory. Her eyes were alight with want. He instantly felt all his blood rush to his nether bits.

"Finally" she uttered. Swaying her hips as she walked towards him. He stood still as a statue, unable to process the view in front of him. His wife was utterly magnificent. He loved her boldness. She was not afraid to ask for what she wanted.

Before long she stood before him, moved her hands to his shoulder and started tugging down his bathrobe. "You are much too overdressed" her Scottish tone low and alluring.

Charles did not move, enjoying the sensation of his wife undressing him. He felt her eyes upon him. She looked him up and down. Releasing a pleased sign from her pretty lips, Charles finally snapped out of his stillness. He shrugged his remaining garments off and sprang towards her.

Elsie squealed, his actions taking her by surprise. She was settled within his arms, when he said "Must be quiet, wife." He lowered her onto the bed and started kissing her all over.

They touched and stroked, taking their time rediscovering each other. They progressed fairly quickly after Charles felt for himself her readiness. His fingers were covered in her essence and he moved the cradle of her legs. He lined himself up to her entrance and pushed forward in a slow trust. Both gasped at his entry.

A few slow strokes later and Charles found his rhythm. Elsie was immersed in the feeling of her husband moving inside her, but the sound of the bed squeaking rhythmically brought her out of her love induced haze.

She patted his shoulder to get his attention, "Charles Stop."

Charles automatically paused at her words. Confusion clouded his mind.

"What's wrong? Did I hurt you?" He looked down into her eyes. Looking for any clues as to why she made him stop. This position was tortuous for him. He was still within her, but unable to move. She felt so delightful, wet and warm. All he wanted to do was continue making love to his wife.

"The bed Charles, it's too loud."

"Huh?" Still not getting her point, his focus elsewhere.

"People will know what we are doing, if we continue on this bed" She stated seriously, pushing on his shoulders for him to get off her.

Charles reluctantly left her and moved to get off the bed. Elsie stood too. Her eyes were automatically drawn to his standing manhood. It looked extremely hard and it was pulsing. She felt bad for interrupting and looked around the room for a solution. Eager to have him inside her again, she drew the top blanket off the bed and spread it on the ground.

Charles raised his brow, but went along with her new plan. He knelt on the blanket and pulled her to the floor. Still on his knees, he guided her onto her back and moved to nestle himself between her open thighs.

He moved his hand over her slit once more and rubbed her special nub in a circular motion. She reacted instantly and pushed her hips into his hand. After a few moments of teasing and pleasuring her, he moved his hands to the outside of her legs and pulled them to his chest. The motion pulled her body closer to his in a quick fashion. Surprised Elsie released a small gasp.

Charles lined himself up once more and entered her. This was a new position for the pair. Him knelt before her, with her legs up in the air and resting alongside his straight body. His hand supported from under her buttock, coaching her body to join in his rhythm.

Charles was enjoying his view immensely. His wife splayed before him, soft hair down and all around her. Breast moving up and down to the tempo of his thrust. Her eyes were closed and her hand fisted the blanket to her sides.

He sped up a tad, igniting a moan from her. She bit her lip as a means to keep quiet. Charles could not help but smirk.

He noticed her breathing changed, her buildup almost at its catalyst. He felt the sudden urge to be closer to her and released her legs. He draped his body atop hers, moving his arms to cradle her head. He felt her thighs part to accommodate his movement. She then squeezed her thighs against his sides.

Low moans were escaping her, as his thrust drove her more towards the edge.

"I love you" she heard him whisper into her ear. "Let go Elsie" he then said.

He felt her inner walls squeeze against him and covered her mouth with his as she reached her peak. She moaned loudly into his mouth. Un-knowing of the noises she was making.

Charles rocked into her a few more times and then drew back. He released himself onto her stomach and then collapsed back on top of her.

After a moment of breathing together Elsie said "We should have bathed after."

Charles chuckled and kissed her forehead. At this point he was balanced on his elbows and forearms, hovering above her. She smiled at him and he kissed her fully.

They kissed for a bit, relishing in the attention from the other. Charles was the first to move, he rolled to the side and brought himself to his knees. He helps Elsie up as well and soon they were standing, facing each other.

"Lets go get cleaned up and then go to bed" Elsie yawned.

Charles nodded and grabbed his robe to leave.

Soon they were back together, snuggled under the covers in their new room. Well new to him.

"I love you very much" Elsie said to Charles.

"You too, Love" Charles signed into her back. She felt his breathing become even, surmising he fell asleep, Elsie took a deep breath and relished in the feeling of finally sharing her bed with her husband. Cocooned within his arms she fell asleep as well.